QUESTIONS have been raised in court about the severity of medical ailments suffered by dogs owned by a County Durham breeder.

Steven Hutchinson, 34, of Bishop Auckland, has been charged with causing unnecessary suffering to some of the 44 dogs and six puppies kept on his Evenwood Gate property.

Darlington Magistrates Court heard that the animals, mostly smaller bichon frise-type dogs, were housed in stable-like kennels in conditions which the RSPCA claims were unsuitable.

Some of the dogs were also found to be underweight and suffering from conjunctivitis, skin disease and ear infections.

Speaking for the defence today (Wednesday, April 16), David Ward questioned whether Mr Hutchinson could reasonably be expected to recognise some of the animals’ ailments.

He said that some conditions such as conjunctivitis did not require veterinary treatment and the RSPCA had no evidence that Mr Hutchinson was not monitoring the animals' health.

Mr Ward also pointed out that some of the apparently underweight dogs had barely gained weight despite being under the care of the RSPCA and that some had contracted ear infections whilst in the charity’s care.

Mr Ward said: “We are assuming that the RSPCA care is good care, if in good care the RSPCA can’t prevent these dogs from getting ear infections, how can Mr Hutchinson?”

Mr Hutchinson denies all the charges and the case is expected to continue for another three days